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Correction: This story has been modified from its original version. — The site of the collision was about one mile outside of Rupert, W.Va. along U.S. 219. Helderman and Hochkeppel were moved to the University.
A Virginia Tech student was killed in a car crash Saturday night that involved four other students, all traveling in the same vehicle.
The individual killed was freshman engineering major Nicole Lee, from Rockville, Md. and a resident of Harper Hall.
Freshmen Gaurav Raja, Harry Rosenbaum, Trevor Helderman, Mike Hochkeppel and Lee were all traveling in Helderman's car on their way home from a ski trip at Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort, W.Va. Saturday evening when the car collided with a tree. The collision took place about one mile outside of Rupert, W.Va. along U.S. 219.
All five were taken to Greenbriar Valley Medical Center in Greenbriar County, W.Va. Both Helderman and Hochkeppel have since been moved to University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville. Raja and Rosenbaum were released from the Greenbrier Valley Medical Center and returned home.
Resident advisors in Hillcrest Hall, the residence of Raja, Rosenbaum and Helderman, were alerted to the crash shortly after 8 p.m. Saturday night by a phone call from Raja's mother, who requested the resident advisors gather the emergency contact information for the other victims of the crash.
At approximately 9:20 p.m., Rosenbaum's girlfriend, a student at Penn State, phoned freshman Justin McNatt, Rosenbaum's roommate, alerting him of the conditions of each of those in the crash: Lee was in critical condition, Helderman was suffering from a face injury and Hochkeppel was suffering from internal bleeding, and both were in varying degrees of serious condition. Rosenbaum was suffering from a back injury and Raja sustained relatively minor injuries.
Shortly after midnight, the resident advisors learned that Lee had died. At 2:30 a.m. Sunday, 3 students, largely from Hillcrest Hall, gathered outside the dorm for a candlelight vigil for those involved in the crash. Shortly after the culmination of the vigil, around 3:30 a.m., the resident advisors were told, through McNatt, that Helderman, "was definitely going to make it."
At Rosenbaum's request, a group of students traveled to Greenbriar Valley Medical Center to visit the injured students Sunday afternoon.
The shock and pain remained heavy within Hillcrest Hall Sunday morning, as many were doubly grieved that all of those involved in the crash were freshmen.
"It isn't supposed to happen like this," McNatt said.
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I'm so sorry to hear about Nichole's death. I knew her as a good student in religous education at St. Francis. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family, as well as her surviving friends.
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Nicole's mom and I are first cousins. I am still in disbelief about the tragic loss of Lynn's baby girl. My wife Karen and myself last saw Nicole at Lynn's brothers wedding on October 14th 2007 in Rockville. We are both deeply saddened by the loss of this beautiful young woman. We are doubly saddened that her chance at a happy and sucessful life was cut so tragically short. We pray that the family (of which there are many) will continue to be strong and supportive of each other as we have in the past when suffering the loss of a loved one. In JESUS'S name we pray for all whose life was touched by this lovely young women. She will be missed greatly.
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The Magruder High community as a whole, and the softball team as a family, share in the deep sadness that Nikki's passing brings. Ours hearts and prayers go to Nicole's family and all of those blessed to have had her as a part of their lives. Nikki's energy and passion will live on in all those who loved her, and in our team family.
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Nicole was a beautiful young lady who in every way had her act together. Our family adored her; to my wife, Nicole was like the daughter she never had. Back when she was in high school, they'd just sit on our doorstep or in our driveway at sunset, girl talking. Her smile could light up a room. Nicole even loved our dog even though she was hopelessly allergic to him. There will always be a little something missing from our street. Our hearts go out to her parents and to Chris.
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Our family is in shock over the news of Nicole. She has touched each of us in many different ways. We will miss her at Whitetail and Rockville Pool. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Nicole's family. Thank you for sharing her with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
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Our family was devastated by the news of Nicole's passing. We have been blessed to have known such a wonderful beautiful girl. We have very fond memories of her and will always miss her genuine smile. Our hearts are broken. Our prayers are with her parents, brother, and her forever.
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I was totally devstated when I heard of Nicole's accident. I met her mother in a craft group and we would meet every Tuesday for several years with our young children. Our thoughts & prayers are with Lynn & Fred, Chris, Jennifer, & Sandy and the families.
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The news of Nicole's accident has come as a great shock to our family. Nicole was one of the group of friends who were always close and a group of young men and women who knew what they wanted and were very driven in their lives to obtain their goals. Nicole was a beautiful young woman with a great future ahead of her. Our love and prayers are sent out to the Lee family and the families and friends of the Lee's and the Magruder community.
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We’re compelled to say a few words. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Nicole who had such brilliance in her life with her smile, positive attitude, caring hands for friends and others, deep conviction, and strength within her. Nicole was a role model and someone who would always try one’s best while being thoughtful and considerate for others. Her life was a full of promises and our family was so looking forward to what the wonderful future would bring to Nicole. Nicole will be very much missed. Our deepest sympathy and condolences go to Nicole’s parents and family. We wish the family peace and strength and you’re in our prayer….
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I was instantly horror struck when I heard of the accident, and greatly worse when I heard the final news. I was Nicole's Boyfriend her senior year in High School. I'm still having trouble gripping reality and imagining life without her. I'm completely devastated at the loss of one the most amazing souls I've ever encountered. She was a gift to whoever knew her. At one point in our relationship she said it was hard keeping up with her own obligations because she constantly put others' in front of hers. She's the only girl I have ever loved. I can't find words to encompass my grief. I feel as if the world is truly a worse place without her. All my thoughts and love are with the Lee's and Family.
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To hear that my longest friend, and one of my closest friends was taken from me late last night was one of the worst things I could possibly imagine. Her sunny disposition, contagious laughter, and kind heart is something that noone that came across her could deny. She will be loved and missed forever and I hope to carry on her legacy, along with my fellow classemates and her close friends. My heart goes out to my friends, her family, and anyone who knew her; for knowing Nicole Lee, was to love Nicole Lee
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We simply can not believe that this has happened. It feels like we're living in a terrible dream. Nicole was a close friend of our daughter Maddie and she was a virtual "fixture" in our house over the years. She was one of the most energetic, optimistic, and self-assured kids we've ever known. There was no challenge too great for Nicole; she always gave 100% to everything she did; and she always had a smile on her face. Nicole moved at lightning speed--from activity to activity--and from friend to friend. Her energy and enthusiasm for life was contagious. She would light up a room with her infectious smiles and she always went a mile-a minute. Nicole always had it "all figured out" and demonstrated that "where there's a will--there's a way". She was a leader, an optimist, and a super achiever. Nicole could always be counted on to stand up for what she believed in and she was a leader to her peers. It is such a tragedy to lose someone like her and she will be missed by so many people. Our heartfelt sympathies extend to Lynn, Fred, Chris, Jen, and Sandy.
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Nicole was a good friend. She taught me a lot over the past 3 years that Ive known her. Even though it may seem like a short amount of time... that was all I needed to experience first hand the warmth her smile and laughter brought. Her ability to make people like me laugh at every little thing she did was a talent I was highly jealous of. But her passing is surreal. I miss her already. I remember seeing her at work almost every single week and seeing her at school for the last time last year. She was my tutor, my mentor, my guide. She was just an all around great person. There is nothing bad anyone can say about her. Its just the type of person she was. I wish it hadnt been her in that car that evening. I wish it hadnt been anyone at all. But GOD obviously has other plans for her. But its still unfair to those of us who have to live without her undoubtedly uplifting presence. May you rest in peace Nikki. I'll always remember you.
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I was crushed to hear of Nicole's accident. I still feel as though this is all a bad dream that I hopefully wake up from soon. Nicole was such a blessing to our world. She always had a smile on her face, was willing to help others who needed it, and was a role model to those younger than her. I will never forget Nicole's bubbly personality, smile, and grace. She will be missed by all those whose lives she touched. My heart goes out to her family at this tremendous time of loss. May god watch over them all... I will always remember you Nicole....I will miss you!
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We are so horribly saddened to hear of Nicole's death. Lynn, Fred, Chris, Jennifer, and Sandy, we send our love and deepest sympathy to you. Our prayers are with you.
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Mike, we are thinking and praying for you and your friends. We are here for you, your GE Family.
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I had Nicole in preschool. Even at four years old she exhibited all the qualities in the previous postings. She was the kind of child everyone wishes for. I have watched her grow into a beautiful young woman and I am so sad she has been taken from this world. I know she would have made it a better place. My thoughts and prayers are with are with the Lee family.
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I have known Nicole since the middle of my eighth grade year. She was one of my best friends in high school, and I still have not fully grasped that she's gone. She was one of the most beautiful people that I have ever known. She was always caring..always so loving. If I ever had a problem and needed to talk she was always there for me no matter what the circumstances. She was the most selfless person that I have ever met. I miss her deeply already. I have been praying for her family, and I have prayed that my closest friends, classmates, and myself will find the strength inside of us to accept that she is in a better place. I miss you Nicole.
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I did not know Nicole at all, but just came across the story checking my alma mater's paper. Reading the comments makes my heartbreak though. You all have painted a beautiful picture of her and my condolences are with you and her family.
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I guess you really don't acknowledge the huge impact people have made in your life until they are gone. Nicole was one of those people that with just saying hi to you she could brigthen your day. I've known her since I was 6 and I can honestly say that though me didn't talk everyday that I will still miss her greatly. She truly was an angel walking among us and now one that is watching over us. My prayer go out to all those that knew her, especially her family and friends.
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Nicole was a beautiful person and we loved her very much. We will always remember her energy, her smile, her laughter, and her enthusiasm for life. She was a genuine gift from God, and the way her presence brought warmth and love to every occasion and family get together can never be replaced. The impact she made on so many of our lives is incredible considering her short time with us. Through this tradgedy, we can only take confort in knowing that Heaven is a much better place with Nicloe there now. Unfortunatley for all of us, she is there too early. She will always be with us in our hearts. We love you and will miss you dearly Nicole.
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Lynn, Fred, Chris, Jennifer and Sandy...and to all Nicole's extended family and friends, our prayers and thoughts are with you. Nicole was very special to everyone whose lives she touched. We will never forget her.
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I have known Nicole since elementary school. We were in girl scouts together. I still remember how she would make everyone laugh. She always had a smile on her face and she was the sweetest girl. I am so upset that I lost contact with her. I will miss her dearly.
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I am truly heartbroken to hear of Nikki's passing. I will always remember her bubbly personality, her smile, and her passion for life and the future. It is a true tragedy to lose such a wonderful girl like Nikki...you will forever be in my heart! My deepest sympathy goes out to Jenn and her family at this most sorrowful time. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace oh beautiful Nikki!
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This is a terrible tragedy. The world was a better place for having known Nicole. Jenn, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers as you face the dark days ahead.
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Our hearts are breaking for our beloved "cousins." I can still remember how Nicole looked as a baby, and it was so great to re-meet her as a glowingly beautiful young woman when we could come up for our family reunions. She really shined from within. Dear Lynn, Fred, Chris, Jenn and Sandy, we can't imagine your hurt and wish we could wrap you up in TLC. You are in our thoughts and prayers constantly.
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I am Lynn's uncle and just wanted to extend our deep sorrow to her, Fred and the whole family from our branch here in Ohio. We love you Lynn and Fred. This too shall pass. Uncle Bud, Aunt Tess, Uncles Lionel and Gary
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I knew Nicole through Jenn, her sister. Although I didn't know her well, I was always very impressed with the many things she continued to accomplish while keeping a sense of balance in her life. She was mature beyond her years' but always seemed to find time to be a teenager. Not the easiest thing to do although she did effortlessly. I know Jenn and her family were very proud of her and should continue to be as it looks like she has made a tremendous impact on a wide array of people. An impact which will continue to be felt even though she is no longer with us. We should all be so lucky to accomplish as much!
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nicole i'll never forget coming to your house the first day of girl scouts and seeing you answer the door.Troop 1249 was so much fun and I will never forget your crazy swap hat and all the fun sleepovers whether at camps or hershey park. you were my rollercoaster buddy when most of the girls in our troop refused to go on them, and i will never forget all the times you and I sat at your house playing with your hamster. we had so much fun at camps playing pocahontas even when i got bit by that huge bug haha. from being fireflys in the 2nd grade play to being spice girls in the talent show to getting on the wrong bus and going to Camp Sunshine to playing softball with your sister as our coach and both playing 2nd base to ap stat last year and playing catch phrase in my room this fall. i'll never forget our first movie night here at tech watching moulin rouge and seeing you around campus always brightened my day. i'll always be thinking of you and missing you, i love you forever girl
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its strange how something like this makes you realize all the little things about someone that just made them who they were, why they were so special. i had known nicole since sixth grade and we were never any closer than being on the same softball team way back when, but when i heard, the first thing i remembered was how she was the only person i ever knew that was allergic to more things than i was, or how she thought it was the funniest thing that her nostrils wiggled when she laughed. it really is the little things.
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I did not know Nicole but her sister was my 9th grade teacher. I just wanted to send my deepest condolences to the Lee family. May god help them pass through this extremely difficult time.
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Trevor, me and the other W&M guys from MLW have been thinking about you and hoping for the best. I did not know Nicole personally, but I'm sure that if she was friends Trevor, she was also a kind person. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
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While it may seem that Nicole was taken from us too soon, we might also consider that we were lucky for every day she lived among us. It will take time for us to each fully understand the impact that she has had in our lives, but as we begin to accept that she is gone, let us be joyful that we were blessed enough to have known such a kindred spirit. It is obvious from the stories below that Nicole touched many lives. She lives on in each of us, as we live our lives as she lived hers: for others. We will never know why she was taken from us, but we each know clearly why she was given to us. Thanks Nicole.
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Our family is so saddened by the loss of Nicole's life. Life seems so unfair at a time like this when someone who is wonderful in so many ways is taken. Our daughter, Allison, was friends with Nicole for a long time. They were in Girl Scouts together with Lynn as their troop leader and went through elementary, middle, and high school together. They were both freshmen at Virginia Tech. The last time we saw Nicole was when we moved Allison in at VT. We were in one of the cafeterias & Nicole ran into our younger daughter. She couldn't wait to see Allison & was immediately introducing her to friends she'd already made. Nicole was an incredible young woman with so much passion. She was a wonderful role model and strong student leader at Magruder High School. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. We are grateful we got to know Nicole and she will be sadly missed.
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I was checking my e-mail when I found out. I couldn't believe it I called everyone I new, and checked every source I could before it finally dawned to me. I knew nicole since middle school, but I didn't know her well. Nevertheless I cried. Nicole was a beautiful, intelligant young woman, with a drive for life, and a heart for everyone. I feel privelaged to know Nicole. I will miss running into her at random places over campus, and stopping for a chat. I will miss waiting to see what kind of facebook photo she would post next I will miss knowing I will never run into her again. My heart cries, but I know she is in a better place, and with god. I pray for her family, and I pray for Harry, and all the other victims. That they make a quick and complete recovery.
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I don't know where to start. I only knew Nicole for an hour or so. I was the third vehicle on the scene. Nicole never gave up, she fought and fought. And when it seemed as if fighting wasn't enough I sat beside her praying with her. if anyone has her families contact information can you please forward my email address to them. snydercm82@hotmail.com
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As a member of the Magrguder High School community, I know Lynn from PTA days at Mill Creek Towne Elementary. While I was not blessed by knowing Nicole, my heart goes out to the family. My family and I hope that your fond memories of Nicole and prayers from family and friends will help heal the loss you feel and find a way to treasure the time you had with Nicole. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
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Where did this happen road wise? Did they possibly hit black ice on the road? Such a tragedy this happened.
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I was shocked when I heard Nicole got in to a car accident and passed away. I was saddened for her and her family as well. I remember playing JV softball with Nicole at Magruder and practicing pitching with her. It feels unreal that this happened, she is a really nice, genuine person and I'm glad I got to know her through Magruder's softball Team.
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Website for Nicole http://www.love4nicki.com
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